🗺️ Rurikōin

Rurikoin is a temple quietly standing in Hiyase Ohara, cherished by nobles and samurai since the Heian period. The temple is usually not open to the public and only holds special viewing events twice a year, in spring and autumn. It is home to over 100 varieties of maple trees, making it one of Kyoto's premier spots for enjoying autumn foliage. In the fall, the entire temple is painted in vibrant autumn colors, creating an exceptionally beautiful scene. Additionally, the green maples surrounded by fresh greenery are also worth seeing. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Rurikoin underwent significant renovations as it served as the residence of Sanjo Sanetomi, the last Prime Minister of Japan. The original area of approximately 12,000 tsubo was expanded with the addition of a 240-tsubo tea house-style building and three gardens designed to incorporate the natural scenery. These include the main garden "Ruri no Niwa," which expresses the radiant pure land of lapis lazuli; the "Sanroku no Niwa," covered in deep green moss; and the "Baryu no Niwa," a pond garden that conveys the essence of a dragon soaring in the sky through water and stone. Visiting Rurikoin allows one to appreciate the unique beauty of these diverse gardens all at once. Among the three gardens, the view of "Ruri no Niwa" from the study is particularly favored by visitors. The spring greenery and autumn leaves visible from the second-floor room are truly breathtaking. The reflection of the maple leaves on the tabletop creates a dreamlike atmosphere, making one feel enveloped in the autumn colors. The "floor maple," formed by the reflection of the red leaves on the polished floor, is a unique sight that can only be seen here. Additionally, the "Hiyase Kamaburo," modeled after a traditional Japanese steam bath, is also worth a visit. It is said that during the Jinshin War in 672, Prince Ōama used this bath to treat an arrow wound on his back. Rurikoin also houses several temple treasures, including a triptych of Amida Buddha from the Muromachi period and a folding screen of wildflowers from the Edo period, which are open for viewing during special events, allowing visitors to appreciate both the architecture and the gardens in detail.

The special viewing period is only open twice a year, in spring and autumn. Kyoto's top destination for viewing autumn leaves, the fresh green maple trees in spring are also stunning. It is highly recommended to enjoy the view of the "Ruri no Niwa" (瑠璃之庭) from the study. The reflection of the red maple leaves on the tabletop and the ground creates a dreamlike atmosphere. The Kamaburo (釜風呂), the prototype of the Japanese steam bath, is also worth a visit.